Device And Method For Improving The Function Of A Heart Valve

摘要

A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises: a support member formed from a shape memory material, and a restraining member providing a restraining action on a course of the support member. The support member may abut one side of the valve conforming to the shape of the valve annulus upon said shape memory material assuming an activated shape while the restraining member restrains the course of the support member. The restraining action is removable for allowing the support member to assume a desired, altered course. The restraining member may be biodegradable to be degraded within a patient or may be detachable from the support member to be withdrawn. The support member according to another embodiment presents a shape change in that an increased cross-section is associated with a shortened length of the support member. The support member according to yet another embodiment has a first and a second activated shape.

主权项

1. A method for improving the function of a heart valve comprising:
obtaining a support member, wherein the support member is comprised of a first segment and a second segment; inserting said first segment to abut a superior or inferior side of the valve and to substantially conform along a first course of said first segment to the shape of at least part of an annulus of the valve and inserting said second segment to abut an opposite inferior or superior side of the valve and to substantially conform along a first course of said second segment to the shape of at least part of the valve annulus at said opposite side; fixating the position of the support member relative to the valve, changing the shape of the support member into an altered course of reduced diameter so as to remodel the heart valve; wherein said fixating step is performed prior to said changing step; wherein said changing the shape includes expanding a cross-section of the support member such that the support member is shortened.